Tag: happy families

Hi Dr Justin, we recently had a family meeting and decided on a family safe word – a word we can use in case someone other than family has to pick the kids up. I know I need to explain to my kids why we need a safe word, but I’m worried about scaring them, especially my five year old. How can I teach her how to be safe without scaring her? Continue reading “How Can I Teach My Kids to Be Safe Without Scaring Them?”

My son is 14 and up until recently we have always been close. When he got in from school he couldn’t wait to tell me about his day. But everything has changed. Now he seems angry and hostile all the time, and nothing I do ever makes him happy. What can I do to connect with him again?Continue reading “Why Do Teenagers Become “Allergic” to Their Parents?”

Each year, when summer holidays roll around, I remind myself that I need a break. I remind myself that it is time to try to relax and enjoy the holidays with my children before the pressures of work and school start up again next year. I know how important it is to have time to just chill together as a family… but each year it seems to get harder and harder.Continue reading “7 Tips For a Relaxing and Memorable Summer Holiday”

My husband and I go out of our way to make Christmas a special occasion for our two daughters aged eight and 13. Of course, Santa is a big part of this and we do the whole snow footsteps in our house on Xmas morning and leave out food for the reindeers and Santa etc.Continue reading “When Do I Tell My Kids the Truth about Santa?”

In some circles, junior sport has become a hotbed of competition and comparison. The push to “do your best” starts early. Kids want to win and they put pressure on themselves to beat their competitors. But often there is downward pressure from parents and even coaches (who, let’s face it, are often just enthusiastic parents themselves).Continue reading “How To Keep Kids Motivated To Play Sport”